EAST ORANGE, NJ — In keeping with April being International Black Women’s History Month, the Young Professionals of East Orange will host a “vision board party” at the East Orange Public Library on Thursday, April 19, at 5 p.m. for local girls.
“It’s free for girls ages 10 to 16 years old and we’re doing it in partnership with the East Orange Fire Department Community Outreach,” said artist and designer Kaylan Jones on Tuesday, March 27. “Our goal is to get young girls to envision their success with the help of young professionals with diverse careers. Black girls need to know that, if you can dream it, if you believe in it and work hard, anything is possible. A vision board serves as a constant reminder to focus on the attainable.”
In addition to Jones, the other founding members of the YPEO are Akeem Cunningham, Casim E. Gomez, Ajah Baldwin and Marquis Salley.
Mayor Ted Green said he is a big fan of the YPEO. During his years as 3rd Ward councilman, Green was known for hosting events for fathers and sons, but always reminded attendees that mothers and daughters are equally important. Green said he is glad to have organizations such as the YPEO around to help put ”unity” into the community.
“Our YPEO here have been doing an outstanding job. They’re our young people that have really gotten involved in civics and the community,” said Green on Saturday, March 17. “We’ve got some young people on it that really want to see our community grow. They’ve been a stellar organization in the community for the last two years and, going forward, I want to work with them as mayor and help them do whatever it takes to succeed for the city and the community’s sake.”
Jones said the YPEO members are happy to work with Green and those who share their progressive goals, adding the vision board party aims to “empower girls.”
“A vision board serves as a constant reminder to focus on the attainable. Black girls in particular, and all women and girls in general, need to know that they are capable of achieving anything,” Jones said.
About the Author
